Although some users prefer to import graphics and images from other programs into Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, PowerPoint includes an advanced drawing tool that you can use to create a normal, single-line curve on any slide in the presentation. To draw a normal curve in PowerPoint use the “Shapes” tool in the “Illustrations” group of graphics features.

Launch Microsoft PowerPoint. Open the PowerPoint presentation, and then go to the slide on which you want to draw the curve.

Click the “Insert” tab on the main PowerPoint menu ribbon. Click the “Shapes” button in the “Illustrations” tools group.

Click “Curve” under the “Lines” heading.

Click anywhere on the slide. Drag your mouse across the page in any direction to draw the curve. The curve outline appears as you drag the mouse. When the curve has the desired shape, click the slide at the position at which you want to display the curve. To change the shape of the curve, click and select the curve, and then click "Edit Shape" followed by "Edit Points" in the Insert Shapes group under Drawing Tools. Move the points on the line to change the shape; for example, to change the curve direction or smooth the curve. You can repeat this procedure until you're satisfied with the curve.

Double-click anywhere on the curve shape to keep it “open” as a single line curve that you can edit at a future date. Alternatively, click the start point of the curve to “close” the shape. By default, closing the shape fills the area inside the curve with a solid color. If you want to close the shape but retain a normal, single-line curve without a color fill, click “No Fill” in the “Shape Fill” options in the “Drawing Tools” group on the “Format” tab.

Click “File” in the main menu. Select “Save” to save the changes to your presentation.

Tip

After adding the curve, check that it doesn’t obscure text or images on the slide. You can move the curve by clicking and dragging the item to a different location. Selecting “No Fill” on a closed shape can also prevent the item from obscuring other content on the slide.

About the Author

Adrian Grahams began writing professionally in 1989 after training as a newspaper reporter. His work has been published online and in various newspapers, including "The Cornish Times" and "The Sunday Independent." Grahams specializes in technology and communications. He holds a Bachelor of Science, postgraduate diplomas in journalism and website design and is studying for an MBA.